Graston Technique

Another common soft tissue treatment used by Dr Eric, Graston Technique (also known as Gua Sha) is an innovative form of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization that allows us to effectively breakdown scar tissue and fascial restrictions.

What is Graston Technique?

There may be times when hands alone cannot thoroughly detect and treat soft tissue injury and restriction. Graston Technique involves using a spatula-like metal instrument to comb over and “catch” on fibrotic tissue and fascial adhesion. This immediately identifies areas of restriction, breaks them up, and reinitiates the first-stage of healing in the body.

Scar tissue adhesions form in tissues to protect the body after an injury, but it is much less flexible than undamaged tissue. As scar tissue accumulates, muscles become shorter and weaker, tension increases on tendons causing tendinopathies, and nerves can become entrapped. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength, and pain.

Graston Technique is effective because it provides controlled microtrauma to the affected soft tissue. The technique stimulates a local inflammatory response, which leads to remodeling and repair of affected soft tissues.

Conditions that may benefit from Graston Technique:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Neck and Back Pain
• Achilles Tendonitis (Heel Pain)
• Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)
• Hamstring Pain
• IT Band Syndrome
• Elbow Pain
• Rotator Cuff/ Shoulder Pain
• Patellar Femoral Disorder (Knee Pain)
• Hip Bursitis
• Shin Splints
• Trigger Finger
• Wrist Pain

Graston Technique is an excellent treatment for sports injuries, postural strain, and pain from general wear and tear.